In both 21st-century Korea and the Kingdom of Tuscany, expanding into international markets is essential for business success. Selling domestically is fine, but reaching overseas markets allows for larger sales volumes and greater profits. Conversely, importing foreign goods can be equally profitable.

    That’s why I had come to the Kingdom of Lyon—to hire shipbuilders and secure new trade routes. However, my arrival was quickly interrupted.

    “Stop right there.”

    I hadn’t been in Lyon long before I encountered a band of thugs. Not just any thugs—these were official soldiers dressed as officers.@@@@

    “What brings a young noble like you to Guillaumetown? I’ll need to conduct an inspection.”

    Official soldiers shaking down citizens for money was familiar enough to me. But these weren’t customs officers, so any inspection they conducted would be unofficial at best. If they found the seaweed I was carrying, they might seize it under the guise of ‘confiscation.’

    The one who spoke seemed to be a captain. I had to tread carefully to avoid provoking him.

    “Good day, officer. I’m Fabio de Medici from Tuscany, traveling to expand my horizons.”

    The officer looked me over. “Not suspicious, then. Still, you’ve brought goods into our port, so there’s a customs fee.”

    It was obvious he wasn’t a real customs official. Yet I knew better than to escalate things here.

    “Of course. I’m sure your work is demanding. Please, take this,” I said, passing him a pouch of gold coins.

    The mayor opened it, his expression unimpressed. “Seaweed from the East? It’s said to be medicinal, but I have no use for it.”

    That reaction was strange. Seaweed was highly prized in Tuscany, especially among nobles who valued its properties for safe childbirth. Seeing that he seemed uninterested, I had Chloe bring in a larger box and used the opportunity to give the mayor a discreet pitch.

    “This seaweed has a hidden benefit, Mayor. It’s not just good for childbirth; it also provides remarkable benefits for men.”

    The mayor’s curiosity piqued, and he listened closely.

    “It works wonders. Trust me—ever since I discovered it, I’ve had unmatched stamina.”

    His interest was fully captured. It was clear he had personal struggles, and I offered a solution that could boost his confidence. I then gave a little ‘truth’ to cement my credibility.

    “After taking this seaweed, I found it improved my vitality tremendously. In fact, every eligible woman in my village is now pregnant,” I said, adding a wink for effect.

    The mayor was now thoroughly convinced, treating the seaweed like a treasure.

    “Remarkable! You’ve brought me a rare gem. Tell me, what can I do for you in return?”

    “I would like to bring in shipbuilders. Can you assist me with this?”

    With the mayor now on my side, I was ready to start formalizing my plans.